2 arrested in connection with organized retail theft ring in Riverside County

Two men were arrested last week for allegedly organizing a series of retail thefts in Moreno Valley that resulted in more than $20,000 in losses for several businesses. 

The investigation began back in September 2024, at which point multiple businesses throughout the city were targeted by the suspect, who made off with a large cumulative amount of merchandise, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Office. 

Investigators reviewed evidence from each incident which led to them eventually identifying the two suspects as MacLean Andrew Short, 35, and Jesus Miguel Robles, 47, both of Moreno Valley. 

On Wednesday, search warrants were served at each man's residence where deputies reported finding a number of stolen goods connected to the thefts, "including high-end sunglasses, electric scooters and various other items linked to the organized theft ring."

Each man was arrested without incident and booked at the Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta. They face charges of grand theft, shoplifting, organized retail theft and possession of controlled substances, deputies noted. Short was also booked for alleged probation violations. They each remain behind bars on $500,000 bail. 

According to RSO, the case was under review by the Riverside County District Attorney's Office on Friday and felony charges are expected on Tuesday.